The Truth About Back Braces, They Don’t Want You To Know!

August 3, 2023

Is it safe to use back braces? Will they weaken my muscles? Can I wear it while doing routine tasks?

Questions like these rush into your mind when you first think of using them. Although most people enjoy their support, many believe the myths and misconceptions regarding braces.

The centuries-old tradition of using devices for lumbar support is still practised worldwide.[ 1 ] Furthermore, the projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the global back brace market between 2022 and 2030 is around 5.5%.

Back braces are commonly associated with providing support for the lower back. Yet, specialized braces are also available for different spine areas, such as the neck, upper back, and mid-back.

Brace yourself (pun intended), and let's debunk some misconceptions. Today you will learn the following:

What are Back Braces?
Common Myths and Misconceptions Surrounding Back Braces

Back Braces Weaken Your Muscles
Back Braces are Only For Specific Individuals
Back Braces are Uncomfortable
You Can’t Take off Your Braces
Back Braces are a Long Term Solution
Back Braces Only Help the Elderly

Understanding the Real Benefits of Back Braces

Muscle Support
Posture Correction
Reduces Pain
Beneficial for Injuries

Caution
SUPMOGO RecoveryFlex System

What are Back Braces?

Back braces provide support, stability, and relief to the spine. They are also referred to as back supports or lumbar supports.

The braces are typically worn around the lower back region and may extend up to the mid or upper-spine area. [2 ] They are made with various materials like rigid plastic, metal, elastic, neoprene, etc., and are hooked for a snug and comfortable fit.

Common Myths and Misconceptions Surrounding Back Braces

Before jumping on the benefits of back braces, let’s quickly touch upon some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the topic.

1. Back Braces Weaken Your Muscles

One of the biggest myths about back braces is that they weaken your muscles.

Although using them for an extended period may adversely impact your muscles, the ones administered under care and precaution don’t risk muscle weakening.

2. Back Braces are Only For Specific Individuals

It’s a common misconception that back braces are only for severe situations and chronic back issues.

However, it isn’t true. These braces can be used for various conditions. Moreover, they are helpful for moderate to severe and even mild discomfort.

3. Back Braces are Uncomfortable

Back braces are not the comfiest but trust us, they are nowhere as uncomfortable as you might have heard.

People believe back braces may limit mobility and cause discomfort. Truth? They may initially feel restrictive and inflexible, but you will get used to it with time. Also, proper fitting and adjustments can greatly enhance the comfort level during wear.

4. You Can’t take off Your Braces

Back braces are typically recommended for specific activities or periods of the day when extra support is needed.

Letting your muscles work and grow naturally is essential, so wearing them constantly is unnecessary.

5. Back Braces are a Long term Solution

Back braces are typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan and are not meant to be a permanent solution.

Aside from pain relief and posture correction, they can facilitate healing, but effective treatment requires addressing underlying causes and engaging in appropriate exercise and therapy.

6. Back Braces Only Help the Elderly

In addition to providing additional support during activities, back braces benefit people of all ages who suffer from back pain or need more support from a back brace. They are not limited to a specific age group.

Although back braces are not recommended for an extended period and may have some side effects, they aren’t as detrimental as some claim.

Understanding the Real Benefits of Back Braces

Back braces are not evil, especially if you have an active and healthy lifestyle to support your lower back rehabilitation. They can have many perks, including posture correction, muscle support, and more.

So, here’s the absolute truth about back braces:

1. Muscle Support

The purpose of back braces is to provide support and stability to the lower back muscles, ligaments, and spine.

What’s more? They help to reduce excessive motion, promote proper alignment, and provide additional support during activities that may strain the back.

2. Posture Correction

Back braces promote and cause proper spinal alignment. This massively helps with improving posture. It encourages maintaining an upright posture and discourages slouching and hunching, which can cause back pain.

3. Reduce Pain

Back braces reduce pain and discomfort due to various medical conditions. They work effectively for conditions like back pain, spinal stenosis, herniated disc, scoliosis, etc. [3]

When wearing a back brace, your movements are reduced, and the region is compressed. It leads to less pressure on the affected area, thus decreasing pain sensation.

4. Beneficial For Injuries

Back braces are an excellent option for fast recovery after an injury or surgery. Providing stability and limiting excessive motion allows the injured area to heal correctly.

Also, many athletes use back braces to support their spine and decrease the risk of injuries.

Caution!

All benefits of back braces aside, you must be cautious while using them. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist and follow their advice. Depending on your specific condition or injury, they can guide the appropriate use, fitting, and duration of wear.

If you and your physician have decided to go for back braces, there are two crucial things to remember. Don’t sulk away from the exercise program that your therapist curated for you. It will help you heal faster and better.

Second, never opt for braces for an extended time. Braces are meant for short-term and targeted therapy, as long-term use can hinder muscle development and cause you to depend on external support.

SUPMOGO RecoveryFlex System

Back braces are great, but they are not for everyone. So, if you’re one of those people who can’t opt for braces for one reason or another, we’ve got the perfect alternative.

Say hello to the revolutionary SUPMOGO RecoveryFlex System - the ultimate alternative to traditional back braces!

This incredible belt is more than just support; it's like a personalized glove for your back, providing unrivalled comfort and targeted healing. Equipped with advanced AI technology, it precisely targets problem areas, ensuring faster, better, and more reliable results.

Whether you're recovering from an injury or simply seeking to improve your back health, this belt is your ultimate companion.

Get ready to reclaim a pain-free life with the SUPMOGO RecoveryFlex System! The belt is far comfier than traditional back braces. Don’t believe us? Try it by yourself!

Conclusion

Back braces are not new in the health and fitness industry. The use of supportive devices for the back can be traced back to ancient civilisations. However, back braces are still a matter of debate among experts, where some claim their amazing benefits while also mentioning the possible side effects.